Adding to the layers of speculation surrounding the future of this ambitious project, a rumor has begun to circulate that Allan Smith has sold the Steeple View property to Jim Worthington of the Newtown Athletic Club (NAC).
Such a transfer of ownership, if true, could significantly alter the project's trajectory, either accelerating its completion under new leadership or leading to an entirely different vision for the site, which in turn could further impact the fate of the proposed creek walk and public areas.
[If it is true that the land was sold to Mr. Worthington, it could also mean that Mr. Worthington is no longer interested in developing a housing project on Lower Silver Lake Rd, which was claimed by the Newtown Sewer Authority via Eminent Domain for a sewer treatment plant. That plan was put on hold (read “Sewer Authority at a "Juncture." Which Road Will It Take in the Future?”) and there are rumors that the Authority has offered to sell the land back to Mr. Worthington for the same price it paid, which is allowable under Eminent Domain rules. If Mr. Worthington refuses to buy the property back the Authority may again pursue the sewer treatment plant idea. Or, it could donate the land to Newtown Township to prevent any future development. - my opinion]
The Steeple View project aims to redevelop a nine-acre parcel stretching from Centre Avenue to the former Stockburger property, incorporating residential, retail, and restaurant spaces across seven new buildings. Smith, a seasoned developer in Newtown with projects like the Stocking Works to his name, has seen his plans evolve considerably since their initial conception.
Proposed Pedestrian Creek Bridge
One of the most persistent difficulties has revolved around parking and traffic circulation. Another key point of contention has been the proposed pedestrian bridge connecting Newtown Borough to Newtown Township's Carl Sedia Park. While integral to Smith's vision of a connected community, the bridge project requires separate approval from the Newtown Township Board of Supervisors.
[My survey says the majority of Newtown Township residents are not fans of this bridge; read “Proposed Steeple View Pedestrian Bridge: Is It a Bridge Too Far?”]
This dual-jurisdiction requirement adds a layer of complexity, with the borough expressing concerns about the project's viability if the township doesn't approve the bridge. This isn't just a matter of waiting; it means engaging a whole new set of stakeholders, facing potentially different concerns, and incurring additional costs for separate applications and presentations. Should the township deny the bridge, the entire project's appeal and functionality could be significantly diminished, potentially rendering years of effort moot for that specific, crucial component.
More...
Your new post is loading...
*Every year the Borough is informed of next year's recalculated number as the number of Township firefighters and capital expenses change. That number has gone up every year. When the Borough was presented with the 2026 number, they chose to terminate.
**I'm not sure where the Boro came up with the number $250,000 in 2025. The agreement calls for a 5% increase every year beginning with $147,000 in 2022. After 3 years of 5% increase every year that works out to be about $170,000 by my calculation. (Read my Blog post...) Add to this the $7,210 related to capital expense of purchasing a command vehicle and you get $177,200 by the end of 2025. Is the Borough being honest with the numbers or making a case to negotiate in public?
Related Content: